Police arrest one of four bank robbery suspects

DAVAO CITY — On Christmas Day, members of the Compostela police, arrested one of the four suspects involved in the Monkayo robbery-gold heist in Polomolok, South Cotabato.

The incident, which resulted in the theft of over PHP 3,600,000 from Mabuhay Enterprises, has been described as a well-orchestrated operation.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Jessar Vagilidad identified the suspect as a 40-year-old man known only as Jun. Vagilidad, however, emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and declined to disclose the full identity of the arrested suspect.

“We cannot reveal the name of the arrested suspect as operations are still underway to apprehend the three remaining individuals,” Vagilidad told Newsline Philippines.

During initial questioning, it was revealed that the suspect lacked any form of identification, such as a mobile phone or ID card, raising questions about his means of communication and coordination.

According to Vagilidad, the suspect traveled through Davao City on his way to Polomolok, which suggests a deliberate attempt to evade detection.

Preliminary findings indicate that a Toyota Fortuner picked up the two other suspects from two different locations, a move that police believe underscores the level of planning involved.

“It seemed carefully planned,” Vagilidad noted, pointing to the methodical execution of the robbery and the suspects’ subsequent movements.

Tragically, BDO Bank Security Officer James Crucio lost his life during the incident. Crucio was fatally shot by one of the suspects while attempting to fight back, demonstrating his courage in the face of danger. His death has added urgency to the police’s efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Authorities are now focusing on tracking the remaining suspects and recovering the stolen cash. The police are also investigating whether the suspects are part of a larger criminal syndicate operating in the region.

This high-profile case has prompted increased security measures in Compostela Valley and neighboring areas, as police intensify their efforts to bring all involved to justice. Updates on the progress of the investigation will be provided as more details emerge.